Bittersweet and the little soap company

amber + zucchini

Summertime and the living is easy. At least that's the idea, right? Since our store re-opened we've been pondering summer thoughts like never before! We're ordering in some of our favorite pieces that we think should be shared because we know that you're going to love them as much as we do!

But first lets chat about the color amber. Typically this conversation would carry on at summers end, but amber is a great summertime color too. We incorporate amber glass bottles into our packaging and always have. Our admiration is simple, it reminds us of days gone by. A time when less was more and the contents inside the amber bottle or jar were without a doubt the best thing ever! Those thoughts alone are reason enough on why we love amber. We also love the look of fresh flowers tucked inside amber bottles. 

I visited our farmers market on Saturday and couldn't believe how big the zucchini were! I grabbed a couple so that we could make zucchini bread. I never make a zucchini bread with the same recipe. I'm always adding different spices or chocolate or some sort of variation. This recipe sounded good and it's baking in the oven as I type. Between the sweet bread and the meatloaf that's cooking in the slow cooker the aroma of the savory and sweet is nothing short of food aromatherapy. This recipe stood out. I have to tell you how much I love leftover meatloaf sandwiches! Since the virus, I've been cooking and baking with pantry stock. Meaning, I either don't make it if I don't have it or adjust the recipe with substitutions on things that I do have. Are you doing that too?

Then there's this summertime fruit drink that I seem to be addicted to. I have tried several different ways to make this refreshing summertime drink and this recipe seems to be the one I always turn to. It's not actually a recipe. 

5 - 6 chunks of frozen mango

1 cup of white grape juice

1 teaspoon of frozen dragonfruit. You can find it in small packets. 

A splash of coconut milk is optional

A splash of vanilla syrup is also optional. 

I use a handy handheld mixer to blend. It's fast and easy and a great summer drink. Honestly, that little mixer is a handy gadget to own!

You can add green tea to the recipe if you want. 

Shoptalk...

 July is going to roll in with an array of new soaps and ideas. 

We introduced a New Pineapple and Mango Room Spray a couple of weeks ago and I made the soap yesterday. The new soap will be available towards the end of July. 

Before that July soap hits the shelves we're introducing White Jasmine. What is it about this fragrant Polynesian bloom? It's almost mesmerizing! 

We're bringing back our "Lake House" line of soaps and clothing articles too!

 Reflection gave birth to inspiration. 

A new line of Linen and Denim Cuffed Jeans. Two of my favorite things that I feel may just become yours too. 

This New Summer Soap arrived last week!

Keep the faith.

Jill 

An Apothecary...

We enjoyed our fourth Saturday of Porch Apothecary. It was summer hot on Saturday, but our customers were cooled off with Ice Cold Lemonade and I made Gooey Butter Cookies.  

We're working on the release of New Soaps this week! Behind the scenes and our manufacturing has been running full steam ahead!

We have no idea what the future holds but one thing is for certain, we will remain strong and determined to do whatever necessary to offer our products and to keep the environment safe and secure for both my family and yours. 

The downtown hosted a car parade on Saturday afternoon. I held up that sign to passing cars filled with supportive community folks. 

https://www.facebook.com/downtownliberty/videos/792901284572302

https://www.facebook.com/downtownliberty/videos/253561692742202/

We have a great community!

Keep the faith. 

Jill 

Jasmine in June

It's hard to believe that June is knocking on our door! It feels as though there's been a time warp and that three months dragged on forever but at the same time it passed in a blink of an eye. Do you feel that too? Almost surreal...

At the Bittersweet Apothecary, we're wishing to unveil peaceful vibes that others will share.  I can't begin to type this post without telling you that my heart is filled with anger and disgust when I think about the unnecessary death of Mr. George Floyd. I'm praying for our country. In my eyes as in God's, I believe that everyone is created equal. That no man or woman is better than another. My parents taught me this. I have great parents! I will stop there.

We're moving ever so quickly into June! 

I have a customer named Tommie that loves the scent of Jasmine. He shared this bit of information the last time we visited the store. Tommie has been on the frontline working hard for us and I wanted to somehow show my support so I made a Jasmine Soap. I think he'll be happy when he sees it. We also put together a line of Summer Room Spray and Body Spray that kind of guides our noses into summer. 

 An offering of Pineapple Mango and White Jasmine. Both are extremely nice to the nose! Our entryway is filled with the scent of summer!

It feels good to be ushering in some new things. 

New Lavender and Honey Lip Balm! I believe we have ten different flavors, and I'm getting ready to make fresh Wild Blueberry so that will push our choices up to eleven. 

 Does our Tinted Lip Balm have an amazing hue? It certainly does!

We have a row of pink peonies that circle around a rock garden. I planted the flowers a very long time ago. I dug up the plants at an old country farm and transplanted them to our garden. Their blooms fade quickly but they bring such joy. I made the comment that they were happy flowers. They truly are. A happy spring flower! We could use some happy spring flowers, and even if the joy is brief.

We have Cardamom Creme back in stock! To say that we missed this rich moisturizer would be an understatement! We're happy it's back! 

I present to you three generations! My friend Deb snapped this picture of my dad, son, and myself Saturday at the shop. It's rare to capture us together. I'm thankful that my friend asked if she could take our picture.  Patrick is always in a whirlwind of busy helping to promote our downtown. In fact, he was wrapping up a day unloading supplies from the Farmers Market when Deb took this pic. 

Yesterday marked our third Saturday Porch Apothecary. I'm pleased as a pudding with both the attendance and smoothness. Beyond my wildest dreams! Thank you!

Keep the faith.

Jill 

 

Hop, Skip, and a Huge jump!

This is a raw post filled with a gamut of emotion.  

My take away.. Making decisions based on a mixed bag of feelings is one of the most challenging things I've ever done!

Should you, would you, what if you do? 

A small business owner has some very difficult choices to make during this time. The decisions that you make now could affect your business for many years to come. If you're one of the lucky ones that are able to ride it out. I offer this advice, trust yourself to make the right decisions for your business.  Who knows how long that ride is going to last?  

Do you open, do you not?

Trust your gut!

Bittersweet isn't new to facing challenges. During the past twenty-three years we've encountered a few, but none as significant as a pandemic.

There's such a mixed bag of opinions. Some that you agree with, some that you don't. 

I'm in agreement with re-opening businesses. I believe our economy is going to be knocked out if we don't. Knocked out completely! Since the great depression, we've never witnessed such a tragic loss of jobs and closings. 

The dangers that lurk within...

As a small business owner, I am faced with the reality of it all.   

The word brainstorming hasn't been used in a while but it sure has been in practice the past few months. 

I'm a believer in there's a solution to every problem. However, under the circumstances, the solutions seem to be sketchy, to say the least. 

Here at Bittersweet, our highest command is the safety and well being of our loved ones and customers. Of course, we also wish to stay in business!

When we have this starting point, there are boundaries that must be put into place before a re-opening exists. We trust our gut because it's always right. I won't go into the details about concerns over loved ones in my family. However, my decisions about re-opening are based upon those feelings. 

The brighter side of things...

Right now, everything is temporary. Plans cannot be put into action because those plans can change at a drop of a hat!

So, with those thoughts in mind and the serious concerns about loved one's safety we've decided to offer a soft, smooth, safe re-opening of our Apothecary Store. 

We've even drawn out some excitement about our plan and that feels amazing!

Since our store is located in a beautiful old home we are blessed to have a huge front porch. The porch is the entrance to our store and we've always felt lucky to have it. 

I purchased rockers for customers to relax and rock and an old fashioned porch swing sits in front of the store window. 

With all the brainstorming we've come up with what we believe to be a grand idea and a wonderful way to continue to shop our products safely. We're going to offer a sampling of Bittersweets on our porch table and we've taken down the swing that was in front of the window so that we can open the window to retrieve your orders and safely handle your shopping bag. We believe that shopping outdoors is safe for everyone. We also understand that it's not an ideal plan, but it's a plan that we feel comfortable with.  

We will continue to offer shop on-line and pick-up on our store porch, and even though our free shipping promotion has ended, we are offering a low flat rate of $7 shipping charges on all orders. 

We'll be listing some of our store clothing on our web site and we want you to know that we are available if you have any questions. Please feel free to contact us if you do have any questions, suggestions, or even feedback. 

Our store has changed from offering Wednesday - Saturday hours to being open 24/7. We're making adjustments to strengthen this plan as time goes on. 

Keep in mind that Bittersweet is one woman-owned business. Every aspect of my business depends on me. The manufacturing, everyday operations, shipping, marketing, web site, are but a few of my duties. I've always been thankful for having the ability to learn new things and I'm eager to advance in different directions that help my business to grow. 

We're excited to offer this new arrangement! 

We're hoping that someday you can return to entering our store and touching, and sniffing and browsing. 

I'd like to thank you for your continued patronage! 

Together we will overcome! You have my promise...

Keep the faith. 

Jill 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swiss Chard and Windows...

Since we're spending more time at home and I'm finding myself yearning for fresh produce I'm growing lettuce and chard in pots on the porch. Did you know that chard is a superfood? You can cut the veins out and chop it up or you can simply chop it up with the veins depending on your personal preference. Eat if raw or sauteed with onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil. We could all use some Super Foods now! I ordered seeds awhile ago and I'm going to begin to sow them today in the big clay pots. It's always rewarding to grow one's own food. Once the chard matures we can get fresh cuttings every week. 

We starting cleaning our windows today. If you live in an old house then you know that cleaning your old windows is not such an easy task. Thankfully, Lennis is a carpenter and he can easily take the windows off safely for cleaning. We're doing it the old fashioned way with soapy water, squeegees, and rags. Squeaky clean windows!

Our home was built in 1921 and most of the glass in the windows is from that time. There are also a lot of windows in our home. Our dining room has six large windows. I remember that way back when I first saw this home that was one of the buying points. I love a home with lots of windows!

This window was broken. So you see what I mean when I say that cleaning old windows is not an easy chore. We got the glass out safely and a new piece will be installed by my husband aka, Super Lennis!

My friends from the chicken farm sent me this picture. 

 It's baby chick time!

Do you remember when they brought the wee ones to the store? I've had chicks and birds and baby goats visit me at the store. 

Outside the home front, I'm working on an Essential Oil Alcohol Hand Sanitizer.  I had the formulation down within a few minutes because I'm familiar with how things work, but I was in for a surprise when I began to order the bottles. I have about ten large manufacturers that I order glassware and bottle from and low and behold they were all sold out of plastic spray bottles! This really surprises me because we're talking big manufacturers that carry thousands upon thousands of plastic bottles. 

Since Bittersweet is in the manufacturing business we rely on these companies to provide our packaging. It might just get interesting to see how long the arrival of such things will take. 

I've already noticed a stop on certain essential ingredients that we use to create cremes and serums. Lucky for us we always have an extra supply of bottles and jars just in case. I've already done a mock-up for the bottle. Simple to the point labeling. My favorite, by far. 

With the medley of state and county re-openings, Bittersweet has chosen to re-open our door store on Saturday, May 16. We'll be launching a soft re-opening and only be open on Saturdays until we see how things play out. We put much thought and concern into this decision and feel that it's the correct one for our business. Our state will officially be open this Saturday at midnight, but restrictions will be put into place. It will be interesting to hear what those restrictions are, but I would imagine the safe distancing and social distancing will stand firmly regardless of when your state is opening back up. 

 

Little Elle is loving the fact that I'm home. Every day she basks in the sunshine and smiles. 

Keep the faith. 

Jill 

 

 

 

Honeysuckle Roses

The New Spring Flavors are arriving weekly. We're not going to let a virus stop us from doing what we love!

Violets and White Flower, Honeysuckle and Sage, Lemongrass and Basil are but a few of our latest offerings. 

Behind the scenes, we're working steadily on new Skincare formulations and perfecting our existing recipes. 

Our studio received a much-needed clean-up and we're anxiously awaiting Spring to share her mild temperatures and blue skies and spring showers. 

 

I've been trying to stay in contact with our customers by releasing live videos each week. I'm kind of discovering that I enjoy shooting live. Who knew? 

We celebrated a low key Easter. We planned a light dinner and did the best we could while complying with home isolation. That sounds like a bad word, doesn't it? I have not found it to be such a bad thing. I'm making the best of it all and honestly enjoying my time at home. 

Before the Corona Virus, I was in a constant state of hurry and get it done, and the shop kept me super busy. Now, it's low key and slower and I've had the luxury of slowing down. H'm... 

After this runs it's crazy course, I suspect that my life will be much different than before the virus hit. I'm not sure exactly how it's going to be different, but I suspect it will change in many ways. My small business will not just automatically go back to the way it was. This I know...

Hygge holds new meaning now...

Savoring the present moment. 

That huge mushroom popped up right next to the trash cans at the shop last spring! I sure hope another fills the spot! It's habitat consisted of mulch and limestone. I've never seen a mushroom living in such an environment before! It was somewhat of a Mushroom Miracle!

Little things...

This is a picture of my grandfather. I never knew him because he passed before I was born. He resembles my dad. My dad is much more handsome, but I can see that my dad favors his father. 

My dad frequents my blog. So he's going to be surprised to see these pictures! Hi Dad!! I love you!!

My neighbor, The Jesse James Bank Museum is closed but their crab apple tree is thriving. The museum has a small courtyard beside the brick foundation and in early spring houses a large crop of Lily of the Valley. During the spring months and if the wind is blowing from the south you get a delightful whiff of the delicate plant. It's one of my favorite things about our downtown. The courtyard is quiet and usually unnoticed by folks passing by. There's a concrete bench that sits in the courtyard, but it's unusual to see anyone sitting on that bench. I was told by the tour guide that the Lily of the Valley was planted by Mrs. James. The mother of Frank and Jesse. 

On Saturday I dropped by the shop. As I entered the main entrance I couldn't help but take in the aroma of freshly baked pies from the pie shop that sits below Bittersweet. If not for a moment, it was as though things were untouched by this strange and mysterious virus. It left me feeling surreal. 

I was excited to order live plants! Tomatoes, Lavender and Butterfly Bushes will be arriving the first week of May. My mother was a wonderful gardener and shared her gardening ideas with me. I have always followed her instructions on not planting until Mother's day. Seldom do we not get a bonus frost before Mother's day. Do you know what they say? Mother is always right! Remember that kiddos!

Our spring has taken a turn for the worst. It's been super cold and winter-like. It was just a few days ago that the temperature reached eighty-eight degrees! That's Missouri weather. She loves to go back and forth this time of year. 

The poor little birds are confused and my winter coat is still hanging on the hook. One of my favorite things to do is to grab that winter coat and place her in hibernation!  We're not quite there, yet. 

Keep the faith. 

Jill 

 

 

 

 

 

Springing Around...

We're hosting a casual Spring Open House this week and looking forward to seeing your smiling faces!

I was gazing over the Apothecary Shop yesterday and thinking about how our offerings are continually expanding. This means we're whipping up amazing new skincare products that offer an affordable option to achieving beautiful skin. We are loving that!

So, if you haven't been to our door store in awhile you're going to be impressed with all the new stuff!

My mind is in constant command with ideas for even new products that haven't even hit the shelf. So it's an exciting time for Bittersweet. 

You are a Lucky Man! Our latest line for His Eyes Only...

  We're also making some upgrades on some tried and true products like our Household Cleaner, Cleanse. We've switched to glass containers and adding certain essentials to our Grandma Lucy Line. My Great Grandmother would be proud of the home keeping line. 

I just ordered these and I'm excited to pop some in my washing machine. Have you ever used them? I'm a bit behind, but I'm going to get on the Soap Nut Band Wagon! We will offer the nuts alongside Grandma Lucy's line. 

We're also sharing an offering of a series of what we call "limited edition" of soaps. Sweet Grass, Honey Almond, Frankincense and Myrrh will be among the limited edition. That means if you are anxious to try them, you must hurry because they won't last forever. 

I am loving this golden display. It screams Spring!

The Organic Cotton Face Cloths that we're almost famous for is back!  We are proud to offer these in-house artisan face cloths once again. If you've used them then you already know about their plush softness. If you haven't then it's time to experience their plushness. 

Running late for our family breakfast this morning so I'm signing off. 

Have a great weekend!

Jill 

 

The first and the last...

Our first snow of the season is falling. I love the first snow! I received one of my new camera lens in the mail yesterday so I captured a few first snow shots at our home.  My father hosts a breakfast every Sunday and our family was taking in the beauty that comes with the first snow. My dad is pretty darn impressive on his little snow removal tractor! He removed the driveway snow in a matter of minutes. These Sundays are priceless and I'm thankful that we have them. 

The hustle and bustle of the season slow down at my dad's house. It's refreshing and helps to put a clear perspective on things. 

The first snow and the last week...

The last week that my store is open this year! Wow!! Double Wow!

As it winds down, I begin to ponder certain things and one is my gratitude for the many blessings. 

My little store is busier than it's ever been and I am more passionate than ever. It is rare to carry on those passionate feelings for something so many years later. Usually, one gets burned out or bored, but I'm one of those lucky ones that are experiencing the opposite. Another blessing. I never take it for granted and my customers are a big reason behind these feelings. 

I just finished hanging ornaments on the tree and wrapped the presents. Our Christmas tree is usually tasseled with pine cones and other natural elements. I love decorating a holiday tree with natural! Our family exchanges names for Christmas gifts and we really don't go crazy with gifts. In all honesty, it's refreshing and the exchange offers some simple appreciation for the simple things and nonmaterialistic side. It has a lot to do with my age, with age comes a shift in those Christmas gift thoughts. You will experience it one of these days when you get older. 

I saw this on Pinterest. 

I know without a doubt I'm not the only one that feels this! Giggling...

The last week before Christmas at the shop is always a blur. The flood of last-minute holiday shoppers fills the apothecary store to the brim. 

This year, I've already got next year's products planned. It's a good feeling to have those ideas worked out especially since I'm changing the look of the store. After all, it's going to be 2020! Doesn't it have a certain modern ring about it? Hint, hint. 

We have signs coming and a few new pieces arriving next week. 

Blessings to you. 

Keep the faith. 

Jill 

 

 

 

the good life

Once again our wonderful customers showed their patronage by participating in Shop Small Day at Bittersweet Soap + Apothecary. I am honored to have you as customers!

I've been thinking hard about such things and as I reminisce about the past twenty-two years of operating this small business a smile always comes and my heart is filled with joy.

My blood, sweat, and tears have accompanied this Bittersweet journey which helps to appreciate it even more. I wouldn't change a thing. 

Well, maybe...

I've been taking a closer look at my shop and think it's time for some structural changes. With those thoughts come a more streamlined approach to merchandising our store, and some not-so standout departments are getting ready to get a makeover so that they take center store stage.  I shouldn't say getting ready, after Christmas and during our winter break. Which by the way starts in twelve days!

For those that have followed us over the years, you're familiar with our ever-changing ideas and endeavors. We love to make improvements, and there is always room for them.   

I'm super excited to offer a brand new Bittersweet after the holidays! I know you're going to love the new look!

I'm also working on our line for 2020! A new Eye Serum, Hair Oil, and some really exciting home-keeping essentials are in the works. 

Wintertime is an ideal time to ponder new things. The shorter days and wintry nights offer up a feeling of peace and well being in a way that the only winter can create. A slow down of time, and soulful satisfaction from the simplest of things. I love that!

To come...

We have a little turkey leftover from Thanksgiving and I think I'll make either turkey salad or some other turkey dish with cream and noodles. When in doubt, cream and noodles always come through. This sounds good.

Elle and I went on a winter's walk earlier and that north wind was whipping all around us. We're going to hunker down and stay indoors. 

Keep the faith. 

Jill 

 

 

 

 

 

 

bittersweet land

This week marks the beginning of what I call - Zip! Thanksgiving and then the day after, Small Business Saturday and our hand made inventory will be gone in a flash! The following weekend we host our annual Holiday Open House and this soap maker will be keeping the midnight oil burning for the next fifteen days. 

Seriously, how does the time fly by so fast? Our store is only open fifteen more days this year! Now if that doesn't sound even stranger, saying this year. 

Lots of exclamation points!

My shop camera is acting up. I haven't figured out exactly what's going on, but I believe it's the lens. I'm contemplating phones, cameras, and electronic equipment for shooting live video and creating a Bittersweet Pod, and the information I've obtained is overwhelming. My brother instructed me and I trust his advice, so I'm leaning towards his recommendations versus YouTube videos. I don't know about you, but I can only watch so many YouTube tutorials before my head begins to spin!

Anyway, I'm missing my shop camera!  

Meanwhile, at the storefront, an array of Lip Balm awaits the stockings hanging by the chimney with care. 

I shot this with my everyday camera, and it's not bad. A little out of focus and I never had that issue with the 75-300 lens. I think this shot was captured with a macro lens. I'm just learning about macros. 

I could save a lot of camera knowledge grief if I'd just take the time to attend a photography class!

This Holiday feels out of wack. It seems as though the holidays have abruptly arrived. I prefer a soft and mellow arrival. With Thanksgiving being so late it just seems that it's all jammed together. Does anyone else share those feelings?

We found the perfect tree! I'm keeping the tree simple by only hanging white balls and lights. She's sucking up the water! I have been giving her two generous drinks each day since we brought her into our home. 

We're already releasing numbers seven and eight of the Twelve Days this Friday! See, it's moving way too fast!

Where did five and six go? A few bars left and number six is flavored with Chocolate Mint! 

Keep the faith. 

Jill